Background and Context:
Nehemiah's inspection of Jerusalem's walls is a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative of the restoration of Jerusalem following the Babylonian exile. Nehemiah, a Jewish cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia, is deeply moved upon hearing of the desolate condition of Jerusalem and its walls. His account is chronicled in the Book of Nehemiah, which is part of the historical books of the Old Testament. Nehemiah's mission is not only a physical rebuilding but also a spiritual renewal of the Jewish people.

Biblical Account:
The account of Nehemiah's inspection is found in Nehemiah 2:11-16. After receiving permission and support from King Artaxerxes, Nehemiah travels to Jerusalem. Upon his arrival, he waits three days before undertaking a secretive night inspection of the city's walls. Nehemiah 2:12 states, "I set out during the night with a few men. I had not told anyone what my God had put in my heart to do for Jerusalem. There were no mounts with me except the one I was riding."

Nehemiah's inspection is thorough and strategic. He examines the walls and gates, noting their broken and burned condition. His route includes the Valley Gate, the Dragon’s Well, and the Dung Gate, as described in Nehemiah 2:13 : "So I went out at night through the Valley Gate toward the Well of the Serpent and the Dung Gate, and I inspected the walls of Jerusalem that had been broken down and the gates that had been destroyed by fire."

Significance:
Nehemiah's inspection is significant for several reasons. It demonstrates his leadership qualities, including his discretion, strategic planning, and reliance on God. Nehemiah's approach is methodical; he assesses the situation personally before rallying the people to the task of rebuilding. His actions reflect a deep commitment to the welfare of Jerusalem and its inhabitants.

Theologically, Nehemiah's inspection underscores the theme of restoration and renewal. The broken walls symbolize the spiritual and communal disrepair of the Jewish people, and their rebuilding represents a return to covenant faithfulness and divine favor. Nehemiah's reliance on prayer and God's guidance throughout the process highlights the importance of faith and obedience in overcoming challenges.

Historical and Cultural Context:
The walls of Jerusalem were crucial for the city's defense and identity. In the ancient Near East, city walls were not only protective structures but also symbols of strength and stability. The destruction of Jerusalem's walls by the Babylonians had left the city vulnerable and its people demoralized. Nehemiah's mission to rebuild the walls was therefore both a practical necessity and a symbolic act of reclaiming the city's former glory.

Nehemiah's Leadership:
Nehemiah's leadership is characterized by his ability to inspire and organize the people. After his inspection, he addresses the leaders and people of Jerusalem, sharing his vision and the support he has received from the king. Nehemiah 2:17-18 records his words: "Then I said to them, 'You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, so that we will no longer be a disgrace.' I also told them about the gracious hand of my God upon me, and what the king had said to me."

Nehemiah's appeal to both divine providence and royal authority galvanizes the people to action, setting the stage for the successful rebuilding of the walls despite opposition and challenges.

Conclusion:
Nehemiah's inspection of Jerusalem's walls is a testament to his faith, leadership, and dedication to God's purposes. It marks the beginning of a significant period of restoration for the Jewish people, both physically and spiritually, and serves as an enduring example of how faith and action can lead to the renewal of a community.